Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
An impressive 35cm Japanese blue-and-white (sometsuke) porcelain charger featuring a dynamic underglaze cobalt painting of an egret perched upon a gnarled willow tree trunk. Produced at the renowned Shida kiln during the late Edo period, this piece showcases the distinctive painterly freedom and soft, rich cobalt tones characteristic of regional Imari production.
Story
During the late Edo period, rural Japanese kilns like Shida transformed utility wares into expressive masterpieces. Artisans used cobalt oxide to paint traditional motifs—here, a heron nestled in a sweeping willow tree—with fluid, almost calligraphic brushwork. The underside clearly shows spur marks from its kiln firing over 150 years ago.
Maker / Origin
The Shida kiln, located in modern-day Saga Prefecture, was one of the major production centers of Edo-period Hizen porcelain. Known for producing large-scale sometsuke chargers for everyday and ceremonial use, Shida potters were prized for their bold, spontaneous brushwork that differed from the hyper-refined official Nabeshima wares.
Condition & Value
Very good overall antique condition. A minor glaze chip/flake is visible along the outer rim edge (indicated by the arrow in the photo detail), along with minor firing specks and typical kiln spur marks on the base consistent with Edo-period production. The chip reduces potential value by roughly 15-20%.
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.